Chief Joseph Ebere Ezeokafor, the billionaire businessman and father of Nigerian socialite Jowizaza, has regained his freedom after spending several days in the custody of kidnappers.

Ezeokafor, the founder and chairman of the Jezco Group of Companies, was abducted on August 4, 2026, while travelling to a prayer ground in Awka, Anambra State.

His abduction sparked concern among family members, business associates and many Nigerians who followed developments surrounding the incident.

According to reports, the abductors initially demanded N700 million from Ezeokafor’s family before allegedly increasing the ransom to N1.5 billion during negotiations.

The reported increase in the ransom demand heightened fears over the businessman’s safety as efforts continued to secure his release.

However, it remains unclear whether any ransom was eventually paid.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not disclosed how he regained his freedom.

Details such as where he was released and whether security operatives played a role in the operation have also not been made public.

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